Officials urge Kentucky drivers to prevent possible DUI crashes during Fourth of July weekend

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Team Kentucky is reminding drivers to drive sober and to celebrate responsibly this Fourth of July weekend.

According to a release by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, drivers are encouraged to plan ahead for a sober ride home and should expect an increased law enforcement presence during the holiday weekend.

Transportation officials say this is to prevent drunk driving crashes.

“As we celebrate this holiday weekend, we encourage everyone to make smart decisions so we can keep Kentucky’s roads safe for everyone,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Drive sober, look out for your friends and family, and help anyone who has been drinking find a safe way home.”

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet officials are reminding drivers to “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and to remember that “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.”

According to the Kentucky State Police crash records, last year, 55 crashes occurred involving a drunken or drugged driver over the Fourth of July holiday period, resulting in 30 injuries and three deaths.

For a nationwide initiative, the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety is working with local and state law enforcement agencies to increase high-visibility patrols and sobriety checkpoints throughout the holiday period.

“You might feel okay to drive, but even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can impair your ability to drive safely, think clearly or react quickly,” said Transportation Secretary Rebecca Goodman. “Don’t take the risk of putting yourself and others on the road in danger.”

To prevent tragedies, transportation officials offer these recommendations:

• Before the festivities begin, plan to get home safely at the end of the night.
• If you’re impaired, use a ride-booking company, taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation to get home safely.

If you see an impaired driver, safely pull over and contact law enforcement. You may dial the Kentucky State Police’s toll-free line at 800-222-5555 or call 911.

If you know people who are about to drive or ride while impaired, officials say to take their keys and assist them to make other arrangements to get to their destination safely.

Finally, officials say to wear a seat belt.

For more information visit kyhighwaysafety.com.